Mini-Reviews

Tuesday, 31 August 2010

Top Ten Australian Films (Guest Post)

Top 10 Australian Films

When it comes to down under flicks, there's plenty more to Australia than knife-wielding Crocodile Dundee or croc-hunter-in-training Bindi Irwin. Australia has a thriving film culture with some truly unique classics that celebrate the land and people Down Under. When it comes to great Australian films, here's what we "Okkas" might put in our Top 10.

Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, 1994 - this blockbuster sensation follows the wacky adventures of two drag queens and a transsexual travelling on a pink bus named "Priscilla" as they make their way through the outback to an Alice Springs resort to give the performance of a lifetime. This comedy of errors brings true Australian culture and contemporary issues to the forefront in a humorous and delightful way. Love The Matrix or Lord of the Rings? All we can say is watch this film and you'll never look at Hugo Weaving in the same light again!

The Dish, 2000 - starring Sam Neill and Billy Mitchell and directed by Rob Sitch, this inspired film is based on true events that took place during the broadcasting of Neil Armstrong's groundbreaking first steps on the moon. Set at Parkes Observatory in NSW, The Dish tells the story of how three Australian scientists gallantly contribute to one of the greatest moments in history - with a few gaffs and laughs to boot. If you've ever introduced your wife as "the lemon" or wondered why the biggest radio telescope in the Southern hemisphere was built in the middle of a sheep paddock, this is the film for you.

Strictly Ballroom, 1992 - breaking away from tradition is no easy feat - or should we say feet. Scott Hastings sets out to revolutionise the world of strictly ballroom dancing. Co-written by Baz Luhrmann, this fun musical romp is a celebration of dance, passion and love.

Muriel's Wedding, 1994 - is life the pits and your family a complete waste of space? Do you spend your days locked in your room dreaming of better things to come? Then you could be Muriel, the tragically hilarious heroine of this hilarious hit. If you've then followed up your dreams by moving to a big city, trying on wedding gowns and lying about getting married and then actually falling into a loveless marriage with a Russian Olympian so he can stay in the country (all of this set to the tunes of ABBA) - well then you're likely to be the spitting image of Muriel herself!

Picnic at Hanging Rock, 1975 - a true blue Aussie classic, this 1975 film was one of the first Australian films to hit international screens. Mysterious events transpire in the bush to a group of unsuspecting English school children and their teachers. Adapted from the novel of the same name, Picnic at Hanging Rock was the first of many Australian movies to explore man's teetering relationship to the harsh outback landscape.

Rabbit Proof Fence, 2002 - capturing the plight of a people, Rabbit Proof Fence tells the tremendous story of three young children determined to find their way home. Reflecting on some of the common experiences of the Stolen Generation of young Aboriginal children that were forcefully removed from their homes by the State, the film has inspired dialogue around this historical issue. Former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd issued an official State apology to the Stolen Generation for their suffering.

Babe, 1995 - this children's classic is an Australian original based on the UK book, The Sheep-Pig. Lovable Babe shows us that even the most outrageous dreams can come true if we believe in ourselves - and that courtesy is always better than bullying.

The Castle, 1997 - starring Michael Caton and directed by Rob Sitch - this film celebrates what it means to be an Australian. This comedic cult film was reportedly filmed in 11 days on a budget of just $19,000. While it didn’t reach international acclaim, it became an instant classic and must-add to any Australian film collection.

Bran Nue Dae, 2009 - Australian Idol sensation Jessica Mauboy hits the silver screen. This film was released locally in January and will be reaching American cinemas in mid-September. This is your classic road trip/teenage love story chockfull of colourful characters and a great sense of fun. While it can come off clunky at times in its arrangement and storyline, this is feel-good celebration of cultural identity set to song is sure to have you up and dancing on your feet.

Two Hands, 1999 - wrapping up our top 10 list is a tribute to the exceptionally talented, Heath Ledger. Before Brokeback Mountain and his chilling performance as the Joker in The Dark Knight, Ledger starred as the 19-year-old larrikin, Jimmy, in Two Hands. This classic in-over-your-head action flick sees young Jimmy getting a taste of the darker side of Sydney's iconic Kings Cross. Viewers will instantly recognise some of the most popular city backdrops, including Bondi Beach while appreciating the incredible talent of young Ledger.

If you've got a multi-region DVD player, you can collect add all of these great Australian classics to your movie collection. Buy Bran Nue Dae, Two Hands and other dvds online and have them delivered straight to your door direct from Australia's leading entertainment retailer, Sanity Entertainment.